SALT LAKE CITY — There’s more than 11 percent in additional funding for higher education in Utah.

That’s thanks to a recently-approved allocation by the legislature, which approved a budget increase of just above 11 percent.

“This is a significant increase in state funding for higher education, which will make a measurable difference in the lives of our students,” said David Buhler, commissioner of higher education, in a press release from his office.

Among budget priorities approved was a 1.25 percent compensation increase and $50 million to go toward “acute equity” at Weber State University, Utah Valley University, Salt Lake Community College, Dixie State University and Utah State University.

That allocation is expected to ease long-standing capacity issues and help balance the state funding per student with other institutions, the release said.

Meanwhile, “mission-based” funding, which bolsters initiatives to increase college participation and graduations, was hiked by $7 million.

Several capital development requests were funded. These include “a much-needed” new science building at Weber State University and “critical classroom buildings” for regional campuses of USU in Brigham City and Price.

The Regents Scholarship and New Century Scholarship were both fully funded.

Bonnie Jean Beesley, chair of the State Board of Regents, praised the funding as well as support from the legislature, governor, business and community leaders.

She thanked them for recognizing that “higher education is critical to the economy and well-being of the state and its people.”